You know, I started to read AbarOfSoap's thread titled "how is this hunting" and it got me thinking...

If we feel that harvesting high fenced deer is really not hunting, then shouldn't we by similar logic also feel that hunting virgin or low pressure private lands is not as sporty as hunting high pressure public land? I've hunted high to moderate pressure public lands only but the difference between the two are already astronomical. On high pressure public lands (I'm talking near major metropolitan areas) the deer are so elusive and smart that it's hard to even get one to walk by your stand in legal light. And even whenone does, it's hard not to get busted 'cause it's like they come in with their eyes in the trees looking to pick you out. On moderate pressure public land though, they are more laxed and present you with much more opportunity for a harvest.

Just as an example, this is my 2nd year bowhunting and I didn't get my first deer (happened to be a 6ptbuck) until I decided to seriously hunt the lower pressure public lands. Of course as I'm still a noob, it's quite likely that I have a distorted perception of this but I think everyone can agree that less pressure means easier deer. This being the case, in your heart of hearts, would yoube more proud ofa 6pt on high pressure lands or a 10pt on virgin private lands?